The South Sudan National Liberation Movement (SSNLM) is expected to sign a peace deal with the South Sudanese government at Freedom Square in Yambio today, according to a mediator.

Bishop Peter Lomodia, a member of the mediation team between the government and SSNLM, told Radio Tamazuj on Friday that the parties reached an understanding on outstanding issues.

He said the government had approved demands of the group for promotions in the army and police and that the government committed to integrate the SSNLM into the regular forces.

The bishop estimated SSNLM at 7,000 strong.

Peter John, state youth leader, also confirmed the plan for signing the peace deal in Yambio today.

The SSNLM is one of several armed groups operating in the Yambio area led by ex-SPLA officers from different counties of Western Equatoria, the SSNLM signed a preliminary peace deal with the government in November last year.

A Presidential delegation was meant to arrive in January for a peace signing, but was delayed. Shortly after, government forces clashed with SSNLM in and around Yambio, and SSNLM leader Victor Wanga was wounded.

The SSNLM has said that they took up arms to force the government to listen to their grievances because their views were ignored when aired peacefully.